Category Metals

 

 

Most metals are found inside rocks, at the bottom of the sea and even in the centre of the Earth. All over the world, there are rocks above the ground and under the ground. Inside these rocks are different types of metals.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hot, runny metals ooze out of this volcano.

It takes thousands of years for metals to form under the ground. Hot liquid rock, called magma, and other materials mix together. As the mix cools down, metals form inside rocks. A rock with plenty of metal inside it is called an ore. Sometimes they are pushed to the Earth’s surface by volcanoes.

 

 

 

 

Geologists are scientists who study rocks.

Metals are found all over the world. Some rocks only contain tiny amounts of metal, but others have large amounts. Digging up rocks is expensive so it is important for geologists to know where metals are found.

 

Metals are everywhere! You can see and touch metals in the kitchen, in the street or at school. Some metals are strong and shiny. Others are thin and bendy. This metal bridge is strong enough to carry lots of heavy cars and trucks.

 

 

 

 

This metal boat can push through ice.

We often say that something is made from metal but there are many different metals. Each one has a special feature that makes it useful for certain jobs. Strong steel is used to make machines and boats. Copper, aluminium, zinc, tin and lead are some other metals – there are many more!

 

 

 

Metals are hard and solid.

Metals are usually solid and hard. They have a fixed shape. Most metals turn into a runny liquid when heated to very high temperatures. They turn back into a solid shape when they cool down.

 

 

 

 

Metals are often shiny.

There are many words to describe the feel of metals and what they do. Metal tools do not bend easily. A metal bridge is strong. You can’t see through metal. Some metals are shiny and others turn rusty. Some metals feel smooth, and others feel rough. Metals are waterproof.